There are several words for “hope” in the Old Testament. One of the root words for hope is “kaw-vaw.” It is usually translated as “wait.” “Hope” is a nice word. “Wait” is not, especially in western society. For us, it seems life should be done at great speed and everything done with maximum gain in mind. So waiting is always bad.

How good are we at waiting in the doctor’s office, at a traffic light, in line at the bank, etc? Do we get bored, frustrated, impatient? How does this word, “kaw-vaw” connect to hope? It also means “to expect” or “look eagerly”. Wouldn’t it be great if anytime we had to wait, that we would turn our hearts to God and listen? Hope then, can be defined as “the quiet expectation of good things that God wants to do in us and through us.”

Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him, on those who hope for His lovingkindness. Our soul waits for the Lord; He is our help and our shield. For our heart rejoices in Him, because we trust in His holy name. Let Your lovingkindness, O Lord, be upon us, according as we have hoped in You. Psalm 33:18, 20-22